Washing Hands over a Sleeve on Shabbat
Question
Hello,Thank you to everyone who helps share the teachings of Halacha from our esteemed Rabbi, shlita—for the clear, inspiring, and uplifting words of Torah, and for always being available to respond. Is it permissible to wash hands over a sleeve on Shabbat?And also, is it permissible to wash hands on an elastic bandage (which is washed after use for reuse)? And is it permissible on Shabbat to pour water on clothing one is wearing in order to refresh oneself? The main issue is that these cases may not be considered as laundering, since wet clothing gets dirty from the body. As stated in Tosafot Yoma 77b: 'in a dirty manner, (for example..) when walking in water while dressed'. And also, it is brought in the Rosh in Yoma: 'and there is no issue with laundering since it is being worn'. Therefore, it implies that the clothing gets dirty from the body, so in the cases mentioned above it should also not be considered as laundering since it is done in a dirty manner. Once again, thank you, and I ask our Rav to give attention to this issue. With blessings of Torah, Akiva Shprintzles
Answer
Shalom Rav,
It is forbidden to soak a garment in water on Shabbat, even if done while dirty manner, like, whilst wearing it.
It is only permitted when done for the sake of a mitzvah or something similar.
Source
Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim, Siman 301, Seif 3